The Nigerian Army has launched an investigation into allegations that some of its personnel engaged in the extortion of farmers and motorists along major routes in Kwara State.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Army Headquarters expressed serious concern over the reports, describing the alleged misconduct as completely unacceptable and contrary to the core values of the military institution. The Army assured the public that any personnel found culpable would be dealt with decisively in accordance with military laws and extant regulations.
According to preliminary information, the allegations centre around checkpoints set up in parts of Kwara, where soldiers were accused of demanding money from farmers transporting goods to markets and motorists passing through rural communities. The situation reportedly created hardship for residents, particularly in agrarian areas where movement of farm produce is critical for local livelihoods.
The Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, noted that the Nigerian Army remains committed to professionalism, discipline, and protecting the rights of citizens. He reiterated that the military leadership has zero tolerance for any form of misconduct, adding that internal mechanisms have been activated to thoroughly probe the matter.
“We urge members of the public to come forward with credible information that will assist the investigation. Our personnel are deployed to safeguard lives and property, not to harass or exploit the same citizens they are meant to protect,” he stated.
The Army’s swift response to the allegations has been welcomed by civil society organizations and local leaders in Kwara, who stressed the importance of restoring trust between security agencies and the communities they serve.
Meanwhile, the Army assured that routine operations aimed at tackling insecurity, banditry, and other criminal activities in the region will continue without interruption, but with greater oversight to prevent further abuses.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to set the tone for stronger accountability within the military ranks as Nigeria continues its broader efforts to reform its security sector and deepen public confidence.
